2006 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 197 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
